San Marco: A New Jersey Original from the Outer Coastal Plain
If you’re looking for a red wine that’s both unique to New Jersey and rooted in Italian tradition, check out San Marco. This grape was created in Italy in the 1990s by crossing two old varieties, Teroldego and Lagrein. It was later introduced to South Jersey’s Outer Coastal Plain AVA, where local growers found it suited perfectly to the region’s sandy soils and long growing season.
The Outer Coastal Plain AVA
The Outer Coastal Plain AVA covers much of southern New Jersey, stretching from the Delaware Bay to the Atlantic Ocean. This area encompasses counties such as Atlantic, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester, and Salem.
Why it’s perfect for grapes
Sandy, well-drained soils keep vines healthy by preventing excess water. Ocean breezes from the Atlantic and Delaware Bay keep summers warm but not too hot and help prevent early frosts. Long growing season gives grapes plenty of time to ripen, creating full flavor without overly high alcohol. Gentle rolling land helps with both drainage and sun exposure.
This unique combination of soil, climate, and location makes the Outer Coastal Plain an ideal region for producing high-quality wines, such as those from San Marco.
What San Marco Tastes Like
San Marco produces wines that are deep in color, featuring flavors of black cherry, blackberry, and herbs. The tannins are firm but smooth, giving structure without being too heavy. Many wine lovers compare it to Syrah (peppery, savory notes) and Cabernet Franc (dark fruit with herbal edges).
Wineries Making San Marco in New Jersey
1) Bellview Winery (Landisville, NJ)
Bellview was the first to grow and bottle San Marco in the U.S. They continue to make it regularly, often aging it in French oak.
2) Autumn Lake Winery (Williamstown, NJ)
Autumn Lake also produces San Marco, sometimes releasing small-batch vintages that have already won awards.
3) More to Come
Since San Marco is trademarked for New Jersey’s Outer Coastal Plain AVA, more wineries in the region are beginning to plant it. Expect to see more bottles in tasting rooms soon.
Food Pairings to Try
Grilled steak with herbs, Mushroom pasta or polenta, Braised short ribs, Sharp cheeses like Pecorino
In short: San Marco is a rising star in New Jersey wine—deep, flavorful, and structured—grown in the perfect terroir of the Outer Coastal Plain AVA, with a style that falls somewhere between Syrah and Cabernet Franc.
Would you like me to also add winery website links and phone numbers under each winery (like a mini tasting map style), the way you had for your Vidal Blanc map project?
